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Families are invited to learn about a time-sensitive opportunity for students in Grades 5–12 through Ethṓs Lab, a Vancouver-based non-profit offering project-based STEAM programs.
Ethṓs Lab’s flagship event is the Blackathon, a design jam that celebrates innovation, culture, and community. Rooted in Black history and creativity, the Blackathon invites youth to design future-focused solutions using technology as a tool for impact. This year, winning teams will receive cash prizes and prize packages. To participate in the Blackathon, students must attend a one-day Readiness Workshop. Kits House is able to cover the $75 workshop fee for a limited number of students, making this opportunity free with a provided code. Blackathon Readiness Workshop (1 day)
The Blackathon is a district-sanctioned event, and Ethṓs Lab can provide letters of support to assist with student attendance. Families interested are encouraged to register soon, as subsidized spots are limited. Families are reminded that registration is now open for the 2026 Spring Season with Jericho Little League. Registration is open to players ages 3–12, and children of all skill levels and experience are welcome.
🗓 Registration deadline: January 30, 2026 ⚾ Season: Spring 2026 Jericho Little League offers a range of divisions to suit different ages and experience levels, from Blastball and T-Ball for younger players through to Minors and Kid Pitch (formerly Majors) for older athletes. Players registering for Minors and Kid Pitch will be scheduled for an assessment in early February at UBC. Families are encouraged to:
💰 Financial assistance may be available through KidSport, and families can also contact [email protected] to discuss support options. Additional information:
👉 Register here 👉 Learn more: www.jerichobaseball.com or reach out to [email protected] for additional questions Families are encouraged to register before the January 30 deadline to ensure placement. As we begin 2026, the team at FamilySmart is sharing a message of care and connection for families. January can feel challenging with the return to school and full schedules, and many parents and caregivers may feel stretched or unsure about what their family needs next. If that’s the case, you are not alone — and support is available.
FamilySmart is grateful to walk alongside families and offer opportunities for connection, understanding, and practical help throughout the year. Family Peer SupportFamily Peer Support Workers are at the heart of FamilySmart. They are parents who understand the emotional challenges of supporting a child with mental health and/or substance use concerns, because they have lived this journey themselves. This month, FamilySmart is introducing Corinna, a Family Peer Support Worker supporting families in the Fraser Health region. Families whose children or youth are connected with Fraser Cascade ICY, ADTP East, START, or Transition Team East may be invited to connect with her. Corinna shares her perspective on walking alongside families during hard moments and reminding parents and caregivers that they don’t have to do this alone. “As parents we do the best we can with what we have, and we can still feel like complete failures. Parenting a child or youth who is struggling is hard. We are here for you.” 👉 Find support here Support After a Mental Health CrisisFamilySmart also offers Help for the Hard Times, a free online series created by families, for families, to support caregivers after a child experiences a mental health crisis. The series provides reassurance, practical tools, and opportunities to connect with others who have had similar experiences. 👉 Learn more here Families who want to learn about crisis support and safety at home — even if their child has not had an emergency room or inpatient experience — can also access the video: Supporting Safety at Home When Your Child Has a Mental Health Crisis. FamilySmart reminds families that support is available, questions are welcome, and no one has to navigate these challenges alone. As we begin the new year, FamilySmart is offering a series of free online events for parents and caregivers focused on child and youth mental health. Families are encouraged to register and participate, and PACs are welcome to share this information within their school communities. All events are online, free, and require registration. January Events Connecting With Our Kids When Anxiety Leads to Social Isolation Learn strategies to help reconnect with children when anxiety leads to withdrawal or isolation. February Events A Conversation About Eating Disorders Learn about disordered eating, warning signs, the importance of connection, and strategies that support recovery. Mental Health and Preparing for the Transition to Post-Secondary Explore ways to support youth mental health and independence as they prepare for post-secondary education. Free 1:1 Peer Support FamilySmart also offers free, confidential one-to-one peer support for parents and caregivers supporting children with mental health and/or substance use challenges.
Families can contact [email protected] or complete the FamilySmart intake form to be connected.    This time of year can feel heavy for many families. Shorter days, increased demands, and ongoing pressures can leave children and adults feeling tired, overwhelmed, or disconnected. If this feels familiar, you are not alone. Taking time to check in with one another and reaching out for support can make a meaningful difference.
We are sharing a Mental Health Resources and Supports list from BCCPAC to ensure families are aware of the supports available for children, youth, and caregivers across British Columbia. The resource includes:
PACs and DPACs are welcome to share this information within their school communities. Access to timely support and reliable resources can make a meaningful difference for families experiencing stress, anxiety, or crisis. If you have questions or need further support in sharing these resources, families are encouraged to reach out to BCCPAC. The VSO School of Music is offering a wide range of Spring Break and Pro-D Day camps for students, taking place at both their downtown location and select community venues.
Camps are held at the VSO School of Music’s downtown campus on Seymour Street, as well as Choral Camps offered in collaboration with the Vancouver Chamber Choir, hosted at Hodson Manor. These camps provide engaging, high-quality music learning experiences led by professional musicians and educators. 🎵 View the full list of camps and details Families interested in music enrichment opportunities are encouraged to explore the available options. Families and community members are invited to a free, community-led neighbourhood forum hosted by the West Side Community Housing Committee (WSCHC). This event is an opportunity for West Side residents to learn more about upcoming housing and development changes and to connect with neighbours.
🗓 Tuesday, January 21 🕕 6:00–7:30 pm 📍 St. John’s School Auditorium What the forum will coverThe West Side is entering a period of rapid change, including new rezoning applications in the Arbutus Walk area and the broader rollout of the Broadway Plan. This forum will provide space for residents to listen, learn, and ask informed questions. Participants will:
This is not a rally or protest, but a chance for neighbours to come together, build understanding, and strengthen community connections. 🔗 Event information and RSVP All are welcome to attend. The Vancouver Thunderbirds Minor Hockey Association is introducing a new Learn to Play Hockey program for children ages 4–8 who have never played hockey before. This program offers a fun, safe, and welcoming introduction to hockey and is designed to help new players build confidence and basic skills. Sessions take place Sunday mornings at Sunset Rink, and the registration fee includes full equipment, helping remove common barriers for families new to the sport. Families are encouraged to review the attached poster for full program details, including schedule, location, and cost. 👉 To get started, please join the waitlist and the association will follow up with registration details. 👉 Click here to join the waitlist.  |
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